Studio Critical: is a Manchester / Salford based studio creating tactile wooden objects. Designer/Maker Nick Vorstermans focuses his practice on using locally and sustainably sourced materials.
Hello, I'm Nick Vorstermans the creative force at Studio Critical:, located in an old mill in Salford on the edge of Manchesters city centre. I have a profound connection to locally sourced and sustainable materials, primarily wood in its various forms.
I create wooden spoons, bowls, and furniture, all with a deep commitment to craftsmanship. Studio Critical: stands out due to my unwavering dedication to sustainability. Many of my pieces are crafted from green wood, often sourced from urban trees that have naturally fallen or been responsibly trimmed. This is my way of practicing 'Treecycling.' I believe in the power of craft to counter the influx of mass-produced, disposable goods that harm our environment. Craft, for me, represents the art of creating beauty from truly renewable and sustainable resources while respecting materials and processes in a human-centric way. My commitment extends beyond my workshop, whether it's utilizing salvaged wood most often collected by bicycle or repurposing wood waste as mulch in the allotment, I aim for a minimal environmental impact. Studio Critical: is more than just a creative space; it's a sanctuary for sustainable craftsmanship.